M'sian politician Syed Saddiq models to get donations for his constituency, says govt didn't provide funds

Syed Saddiq, a Malaysian member of parliament (MP) and former minister of youth and sports, raised RM1 million (S$302,334) worth of donations for his Muar constituency from modelling.

According to New Straits Times, the 32-year-old said during a debate in the Dewan Rakyat on Feb. 18 that he had done so after failing in negotiations with the Malaysia government to obtain funds for the Muar Parliamentary Service Centre.

He was previously advised by Malaysia prime minister Anwar Ibrahim to negotiate about opposition party funds with deputy prime minister Fadillah Yusof, reported Malay Mail.

Sent in multiple requests, resorted to modelling

Saddiq, who is also president of political party Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda), said he had repeatedly tried to secure funding from the government.

However, despite five attempts and multiple letters sent to authorities, his requests remain unsuccessful after 400 days.

"If you don't want to give it, say it here in this hall, just say you don't want to give it. Don't be two-faced, saying one thing outside and another inside," he said, as quoted by Malay Mail.

Saddiq added that he then resorted to modelling Hari Raya clothes under Malaysian clothing brand PrimaValet to obtain RM1 million (S$302,334) in donations for his constituency.

In an Instagram post on Feb. 12, he confirmed that the brand did not provide monetary assistance, but instead donated clothes and food hampers to Muar residents.

"Praise be to God, I managed to raise over RM1 million for the Muar constituency," he said in the clip.

Saddiq was also seen making house visits and distributing the items to homes in Muar along with Malaysian actress and modelling partner Bella Astillah.

Criticised by other MPs

Saddiq's modelling stint, however, did not sit well with other Malaysia MPs.

According to NST, he had been met with criticism from leaders such as Syerleena Abdul Rashid, Pakatan Harapan's MP for Bukit Bendera, for "neglecting the people of Muar" while he was frequently promoting PrimaValet.

"I had no choice but to become a model," Saddiq said in parliament.

He also urged the government to "stop being evasive" when allocating funds to opposition MPs and make clear in parliament whether they would receive funding.

Saddiq also said the government should serve its people regardless of political affiliation.

In July 2024, the Muar MP completed a 200km run to raise RM160,000 (S$48,376) for his Johor constituency.

Anwar then told opposition MPs to work together to negotiate for parliamentary allocations instead of "running or jogging".

Top photos via @syedsaddiq/Instagram & Parlimen Malaysia/YouTube